Aircraft Ditched in Atlantic Ocean After Engine Failure Due to Fuel Exhaustion (N26506)

Incident Overview

An aircraft ditched in the Atlantic Ocean after experiencing a total loss of engine power during cruise. The pilot had estimated the fuel on board during preflight using electronic fuel gauges. The flight lasted two hours and 16 minutes before the engines quit, preceded by surging indicative of fuel exhaustion. Post-accident investigation using fuel slips showed that the fuel burn was within 10 to 15 gallons of fuel exhaustion at the time of power loss.

Engine Failure

The engines stopped due to fuel exhaustion during the cruise phase. The pilot had intended to divert to Freeport but did not because the weather there was below minimums. The fuel gauges had failed on the last leg of the flight, and passengers reported that the pilot paid close attention to these gauges.

Ditching

Following the engine failure, the pilot performed a ditching. The aircraft sank in 800 feet of water after the water landing. All three occupants were rescued.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation identified the following findings:

• Loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion (non-mechanical).
• The pilot misjudged the fuel supply.
• The fuel quantity gauges were erratic.
• Refueling was not possible (as decided by the pilot in command).
• Fuel consumption calculations were inaccurate (pilot in command).
• Improper procedures and directives (pilot in command).
• Inadequate preflight planning and preparation (pilot in command).